Journal - July 26, 2023

In June I was able to spend a month in the states and visit family and friends. It was a good time for reflection and prayer. I traveled back to Haiti in early July.

In a few recent conversations the topic of fear came up. As each of us face difficult situations or the unknown future, how much are we letting fear control us? Maybe without even knowing it, we're allowing fear to hold us back from something. In the face of fear it's natural for us to want to freeze, run, or fight. But do we unintentionally allow it to paralyze us, create self doubt, or overcome our peace? I've been wisely encouraged to press on in the face of fear, and to remember that if God has led us somewhere, he will lead us through. Stepping out in faith is always worth the risk because we serve a loving God who is all-powerful and ever-present.

This song caught my attention and it has been good for me to pray through these lyrics.

I HAVE THIS HOPE by Tenth Avenue North

As I walk this great unknown
Questions come and questions go
Was there purpose for the pain?
Did I cry these tears in vain?

I don't want to live in fear
I want to trust that You are near
Trust Your grace can be seen
In both triumph and tragedy

I have this hope
In the depth of my soul
In the flood or the fire
You're with me and You won't let go

But sometimes my faith feels thin
Like the night will never end
Will You catch every tear
Or will You just leave me here?

But I have this hope
In the depth of my soul
In the flood or the fire
You're with me and You won't let go

Yes, I have this hope
In the depth of my soul
In the flood or the fire
You're with me and You won't let go

So, whatever happens I will not be afraid
Cause You are closer than this breath that I take
You calm the storm when I hear You call my name
I still believe that one day I'll see Your face

I have this hope
In the depth of my soul
In the flood or the fire
You're with me and You won't let go.